Oh, you guys! If there’s one dish that my family keeps asking for over and over again, it’s this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole. Picture this: a busy weeknight, the kids are a little cranky, and I’m trying to throw together a dinner that’ll keep them happy without spending hours in the kitchen. This casserole comes to the rescue! Seriously, it’s like if spaghetti and tacos had a delicious, cheesy baby. I can’t even describe the joy of serving this up and watching everyone’s eyes light up. It’s a meal that feels like a hug on a plate!
This dish is also one of those comforting recipes I remember my mom making back in the day, albeit not quite the same. I always loved the way she combined different flavors and ingredients to create something so comforting and filling, and this casserole does just that—fusing the love of Italian spaghetti with the zest of Mexican tacos. It’s simple, satisfying, and makes fantastic leftovers (if there are any!). Let me take you through making this cheesy masterpiece!
What’s in Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole?
- 8 oz spaghetti: Any kind will do, but I personally love using whole wheat spaghetti for that extra nutty flavor.
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey): Ground turkey is a leaner option if you’re watching your calories, but you can’t go wrong with classic beef.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: This adds a sweet base flavor that truly enhances the dish.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: I usually go for Old El Paso. It’s the perfect balance of spices, but feel free to make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 1 cup salsa: Use your favorite brand—heat levels are up to you! Spicy salsa can add a fun twist.
- 1 cup sour cream: This adds creaminess and balances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: You gotta have the good ol’ classic cheddar for that melty goodness.
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend: Because more cheese is always a good idea!
- 1 medium tomato, diced: Fresh tomatoes on top add a lovely, bright flavor.
- 2 green onions, sliced: These not only look cute but add a nice crunch and subtle zing.
- Olive oil: A drizzle makes sautéing the onion a breeze.
- Salt and pepper: Just a pinch of each will enhance the flavors in this dish.
Is Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole Good for You?
Okay, let’s be honest: while this Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole isn’t likely to win any health awards, there are definitely some benefits! The ground beef (or turkey) and sour cream provide a solid protein boost. Plus, the onion and tomato add some veggies into the mix, right? A little green onion is nice for flavor and color too. On the downside, it’s a tad rich thanks to all that cheese, so if you’re watching fat or calorie intake, consider lightening it up by using reduced-fat sour cream or cheese. And if you feel like giving your gut a little love, swapping in whole wheat pasta can up the fiber content!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 medium tomato, diced (for topping)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
How to Make Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole?
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let’s get that cooking magic started!
- Cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this just means there’s a little bite left. Drain it and set it aside for now.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. It’ll smell fantastic!
- Add in the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat—it’ll keep your casserole from getting too greasy.
- Mix in the taco seasoning, salsa, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes; it’s like letting those flavors dance together!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked spaghetti, the beef mixture, and half of the sour cream. Stir it all together until it’s well-combined. Trust me—it’s going to be good!
- Now, transfer this scrumptious spaghetti mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top your casserole with the remaining sour cream, and then sprinkle on the shredded cheddar and Mexican cheese blend—this is where the magic happens!
- Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for that cheesy goodness to be melted and bubbly, which will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
- When it’s done, let it cool slightly before adding diced tomatoes and sliced green onions on top for that finishing touch. Voila! Dinner is served!
Tips for the Ultimate Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole
- You can absolutely make this casserole ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge before baking, and then pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
- Feel free to switch up your toppings! I love adding sliced jalapeños, black olives, or even a dollop of guacamole for some extra flair.
- For a spicy kick, choose a hot salsa or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes while simmering the beef mixture.
- If you’re a fan of veggies, add some bell peppers or corn into the mix for extra color and flavor!
So there you have it, folks! This Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Casserole is a dish you simply have to try. It’s quick, hearty, and a total crowd-pleaser. I promise it’ll bring smiles to your dinner table, just like it does at mine. Don’t forget to share your twists on the recipe, and happy cooking!
